Penn Wind Ensemble Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Penn Wind Ensemble?

The University of Pennsylvania Wind Ensemble was founded in 1978. Comprised of musicians from the entire Penn community, the Wind Ensemble performs a wide range of repertoire, from newly composed works for wind band to traditional masterworks from the core repertoire. Additionally, the Wind Ensemble regularly performs works using flexible instrumentation, including chamber configurations and wind quintets. The Wind Ensemble rehearses and performs in the historic Irvine Auditorium on the Penn campus.

How do I audition for the Wind Ensemble?

Audition information is found on the music website: www.sas.upenn.edu/music/performance. Auditions are held Tuesday-Thursday after Labor Day each fall. Wind Ensemble auditions are divided into 2 parts:

1) Brief Interview (2min): each candidate should present the completed audition form and will be asked questions about his/her past musical experiences, orchestra repertoire, private study, etc.

2) Free choice playing (4min): the candidate can play anything of his/her choice for approximately 4 minutes. Candidates are encouraged to select music from the standard solo repertoire for their instrument. In some cases, advanced etudes are also acceptable. Candidates are encouraged to play two different excerpts, contrasting in character: one more lyrical to demonstrate musicality and one more technical to demonstrate dexterity.

What is the time commitment?

The Penn Wind Ensemble rehearses on Thursday nights from 8-10pm throughout the academic year, with the exception of reading days and final exam week. Attendance is required at all rehearsals. Sectionals or master-classes may be held outside of rehearsal time, though it will generally be limited to no more than 2 per semester. During concert weeks, one additional full wind ensemble rehearsal may be added. Many wind ensemble members remain very active in other campus organizations.

How many concerts does the wind ensemble perform each year?

The Penn Wind Ensemble performs 2 concerts annually – one in the fall semester and one in the spring semester. See the online repertoire list for works that have been performed recently.

How competitive is membership in the wind ensemble?

This can vary from year to year, depending on the number of students graduating from a particular section or what instruments are needed. Every member of the PWE is required to re-audition each year, so the number of openings available for potential new members is limited only by the number of outstanding players that audition. All students interested in playing in the wind ensemble are encouraged to audition. You never know what will happen unless you take the audition!

How are wind ensemble members seated?

Seating is based on the fall auditions. Members are evaluated by the conductor based on the initial audition and their performance throughout the year, and are assigned seats according to ability and level of commitment to the group. Parts are sometimes rotated if ability levels are consistent within the section. Every effort is made to give numerous students an opportunity to sit in leadership positions, within what will best serve the music and the ensemble as a whole.

Can I be in Penn Band and still be in wind ensemble?

Yes, absolutely. Penn Band rehearses on Monday nights (+Wednesdays in the fall). Wind Ensemble rehearses on Thursday nights. There are a number of students who choose to play in both Penn Band and in the Penn Wind Ensemble.

I'm not a Penn student. Can I join the wind ensemble?

Yes. All Penn undergraduate and graduate students, as well as faculty and staff, are eligible to audition. In addition, community members, students from other universities in the Philadelphia area, and even talented high school students are also welcome to audition for the Penn Wind Ensemble with the understanding that Penn students will be given first priority for membership.

Can I join the wind ensemble in mid-year?

In some cases, if instruments are needed. Contact the conductor for more information.

Can I receive credit for participating in the Penn wind ensemble?

Yes. Music 7, Ensemble Credit, is available to all student members of the PWE.